In this inspiring episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, hosts Chad Nelson and Maria Howell sit down with Melissa Skoniecki, ECAR’s new Association Executive, for a conversation that sheds light on her transition, her leadership journey, and her vision for the future of the organization.

Melissa opens up about her shift from President-Elect to Association Executive what motivated the change, what excites her most about stepping into this new lane, and how the move positions ECAR for long-term success. For many members, the AE role can feel mysterious, so Melissa breaks it down clearly, sharing what she actually does day to day and the meaningful ways members will feel the impact through improved efficiencies, enhanced services, and behind-the-scenes innovations already underway.

Drawing on her deep history of service within ECAR, Melissa reflects on the leadership experiences that prepared her for this moment, connecting her credibility and reputation to the responsibilities ahead. She also looks forward, outlining the biggest opportunities she sees for ECAR in 2026 and beyond—from technology and advocacy to culture, education, and innovation.

The episode closes with a heartfelt discussion about what she is most passionate about bringing to ECAR in this new role—her values, her leadership style, and her commitment to creating an association that truly elevates its members.

In this insightful episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, hosts Chad Nelson and Maria Howell sit down with Cathy Alley, ECAR’s 2025 President-Elect and Treasurer, for a candid conversation about leadership, progress, and the future of the real estate profession along the Emerald Coast.

With more than ten years since her first presidency, Cathy brings a rare depth of perspective. She reflects on how ECAR, the market, and the industry have evolved—and what has surprised her most along the way. From there, she looks ahead to 2026, sharing her vision, the big initiatives she hopes to champion, and how she plans to continue moving ECAR forward.

Listeners will also get a peek behind the curtain at the crucial but often unseen work ECAR does every day to protect, support, and empower its members. Cathy breaks down the advocacy efforts, education planning, legal protections, and technology decisions that REALTORS® rarely see but rely on constantly.

Rounding out the episode, Cathy offers practical insight on what REALTORS® should be preparing for as we approach 2026 and beyond, plus a heartfelt reflection on why her passion for leading ECAR remains as strong as ever.

In this episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, hosts Chad Nelson and Maria Howell keep it real and keep it local as they highlight just a handful of the key events wrapping up December 2025 and a few exciting things already on the books for January 2026.

It’s a quick, easygoing year-end catch-up...perfect for anyone wanting to stay plugged into what’s happening around the Emerald Coast as one year winds down and another begins. Chad and Maria share what they’re looking forward to, why these events matter, and how they set the tone for the year ahead.

In this episode:

• A couple of standout happenings closing out December
• Early 2026 events you may want to mark on your calendar
• Local insights, personal takes, and a casual chat between your favorite hosts

Simple, fun, and straight to the point...consider this your short and sweet guide to the transition from 2025 to 2026 along the Emerald Coast.

Since this week is Thanksgiving, we want to drop an episode expressing our sincere gratitude to our Affiliate Members. In this episode, we sit down with Kimberly Tate, ECAR’s Affiliate & Events Coordinator, to shine a spotlight on the heartbeat of our association -- our Affiliate Members. Kim shares why ECAR truly couldn’t do what we do without their support, expertise, and partnership.

You’ll hear her heartfelt appreciation for the businesses that show up for our REALTORS®, our events, and our community all year long, plus a sneak peek at what’s coming in 2026 -- from new opportunities to get involved to exciting ways affiliates will be highlighted and celebrated.

If you’re an affiliate, this episode is our love letter to you. And if you’re a member, it’s your reminder to connect with the people who help make ECAR stronger every day.

In this episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, Maria and Chad sit down to recap their recent trip to NAR NXT in Houston, Texas. From high-impact sessions to inspiring conversations, they break down the most valuable insights gathered from real estate leaders across the country.

Tune in as they share:

• Top takeaways from the sessions they attended
• Fresh ideas and practical strategies they’re excited to bring back to ECAR
• Emerging trends shaping the future of real estate
• And of course… a little bit about the fun they had exploring Houston along the way

Whether you attended NAR NXT yourself or want to catch up on the highlights, this episode is packed with perspective, energy, and a look at what's next for the Emerald Coast.

In this episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, hosts Chad Nelson and President Maria Howell sit down with DeeDee Carr and Wanda Jackson to dive into the inspiring work of the Women’s Council of Realtors. From leadership development and professional growth to building lasting connections across the Emerald Coast, DeeDee and Wanda share their passion for empowering women in real estate.

Tune in for insights, laughter, and a look at how the Women’s Council is shaping the future of the industry—one strong relationship at a time.

This week, Co-Hosts Chad Nelson and Maria Howell sit down with the dynamic duo Shelby Baker and Nick Brown to chat all things Professional Development!

From wrapping up the year to peeking ahead at what’s in store for 2026, the crew dives into how education and career growth are evolving along the Emerald Coast. Expect laughs, insights, and a few “aha!” moments as we mix inspiration with a splash of education.

Tune in, grab your favorite beach chair, and get ready to level up -- Emerald Coast style! ☀️🌴

Inside ECAR’s Leadership Development Program

In this episode, hosts Chad Nelson and Maria Howell sit down with Brandy Brown and Jason Miller for a lively and insightful conversation about ECAR’s Leadership Development Program (LDP) and what leadership really means at ECAR.

From the origins and goals of LDP to personal stories of growth and lessons learned along the way, this episode dives deep into how ECAR is helping team members take their careers — and leadership skills — to the next level. Whether you’re part of ECAR or just passionate about professional development, this one’s full of inspiration, laughter, and leadership wisdom.

Tune in and discover how you can lead the way forward.